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Second Straight Bowling Title Within Reach For Chargers

Like a true captain, Pearl City bowler Brianna Nakamura doesn’t look too far ahead. She always sets the right example. That means focusing on the matter at hand.

Not that she and her Charger teammates aren’t fully aware that a second straight state title (for both boys and girls) seems well within reach.

“We don’t really talk about it — we take it one step at a time,” said Nakamura, a senior. “Of course, we all think about how nice it would be to win a second straight Triple Crown (OIA West, OIA overall and state title). Last year, both the boys and girls won, and we’re on track again, hopefully. Knock on wood, hopefully we’ll be able to do it. I have faith in our team.”

Next up, the Chargers will gear up for OIA overall competition, which plays out Thursday at Schofield Bowling Center.

Nakamura recently took some time away from the bowling alley to visit with MidWeek‘s West Oahu Islander.

Who’s had the biggest impact on your life? First, my parents (Bradley and Yolanda) because they’ve always been there to support me. Second, my Auntie Millie Gomes (Pearl City head bowling coach). She’s the reason I’m bowling. My mom had decided I should just focus on school, but Auntie Millie called me up and asked me to join. I’m close to her. She’s more than just a coach.

What is your earliest sports-related memory? When I was 4-and-a-half and I decided I wanted to play soccer. It was easy, and I had fun. I played through my freshman year before I decided I just wanted to concentrate on bowling.

How would you assess the 2012 season so far? We’re well-rounded. We all have different qualities, which when you bring us together, make us strong. That’s why we’re a team.

What’s the most important thing you’ve learned through athletics? I’ve learned never to give up.

Who is Pearl City’s hardest worker — the girl who gives 110 percent at all times? Ashlyn Rae Castro. She’s always positive and never gives up. She’s always the happiest on the team. She brings us up when we’re down.

What Internet site do you frequent the most? Google, for my homework.

I focus on school and bowling. Those are my priorities.

What movie could you watch over and over? Pitch Perfect. It’s super funny, and they sing, which is something I like to do.

What is in your iPod? Adele, Common Kings and Lady Antebellum are some of my favorites. I have maybe like 1,000 songs.

When you have free time, how do you like to spend it? I’m either talking to my friends or hanging out with my very good friend from Mililani, Breanne Hew.